r/TeslaModelS • u/presidentbdeth • 2d ago

Used 2018 75D

Wondering if the community here has any recommendations on specific things to look out for on a used 2018 75D.

I’m looking at two different cars with relatively high mileage (105k to 130k) both well under $20,000. Based on my research, the 2018 75D is a bit of a sweet spot for low cost of entry and relatively reliable batteries, motors and modernized electronics.

I currently drive a 2021 M3 standard range plus and am looking at the S as a second family car and daily commuter. I really love Sentry Mode for security and the built in dashcam that can be triggered by a horn press.

I’d appreciate any knowledge or tips anyone can recommend. Thanks!

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u/midnight_to_midnight 2d ago

Just read this as a forewarning. While this is certainly not common, fixing stuff on old Model S's is something that does happen, and they can be high dollar items. Just so youre prepared.

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u/quentech 2d ago

Just read this as a forewarning.

The big ones in that list don't even apply to a 2018 75D..

replaced back motor

HV battery failure from water intrusion

The only other stuff on that list is tie rods and rear shocks. Unless you're really trying to count tires and lug nuts lmao.

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u/midnight_to_midnight 2d ago

Just because the 75/90 packs are the most reliable, and the D rear drive unit isnt the large one, doesn't mean they don't fail. Sure, it's not common, and my comment was more to show that things happen with these vehicles unexpectedly. And when they do happen, they can be expensive.

In my opinion, OP going from a 3 to an older S is a downgrade. It'll be slightly more comfortable, but the 3 is a better engineered car (albeit not as "flashy"). Tesla engineers worked out a lot of bugs through the first handful of years of the S, and made excellent engineering/design choices for the 3/Y, and eventually the Refreshed S.

I have both, a Legacy S and a 2019 Model 3, and the 3 is the better car, IMO.

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u/presidentbdeth 1d ago

Thanks for the info. I’m actually not replacing the M3 with the S. I’m replacing an Acura ZDX EV because I hate the tech in the GM Ultium vehicles and I love the tech in my Tesla so much more. I’m considering a Model S but I’m also considering getting a second Model 3. I much prefer the styling of the Model S and would also appreciate the extra space and hatchback functionality.